THE TAIAROA ENQUIRY.

Lyttelton Times, Volume LXV, Issue 7863, 19 May 1886, Page 4 (Supplement)

THE TAIAROA ENQUIRY.

FINDING OP THE COUET. THE CAPTAIN'S CEETIPICATE CANCELLED. WELLINGTON, Mat 13. Judgment in the Talaroa enquiry was given this morning. Mr Stratford, after reviewing the evidence as to the state of the weather, and the incidents of the voyage up to the time of striking, said he found that the vessel was navigated safely up to 3.30 p.m., when the wind changed to the southward. The course ought then to have been altered to south f west, and at 5 p.m. or thereabouts, the wind having increased, the master should have used the same judgment as he displayed in the Straits, when he allowed a quarter of a point to the westward, the ship being light. In the evening, he should have allowed at least a point, and moreover, knowing he was on _a lee shore, with the wind and sea increasing, a leadsman should have been placed in the chains till the weather cleared. Had this been done at Gor G 30, the soundings must have shown him he was too close inshore. The neglect of Captain Thomson to look at the compass shows want of care, and ignorance of the responsibilities of his position. His certificate would be cancelled; but, in view of the judgment, coolness, and courage displayed by the captain after the wreck, the Governor would be recommended to reissue his certificate, providing he shall have served in the meantime regidarly at sea as mate.

The costs of the enquiry amounted to ■£33 6s, of which .£l6 10s would be charged against the captain. Mr Stratford complimented counsel for the forbearance they showed to the memory of the dead in. conducting the enquiry.